Directed by: Alexander Payne
Written by: Alexander Payne, and Jim Taylor
Based on the book by: Louis Begley
Produced by: Michael Besman, and Harry Gittes
Starring: Jack Nicholson, Kathy Bates, Hope Davis, Dermot Mulroney, Howard Hesseman, June Squibb, Len Cariou

Warren Schmidt has just retired and is now living a quiet life with his wife. His daughter is now getting married to a water bed salesman, and his wife has now died of a vacuum cleaner accident. Now Warren is going to go on a road trip in his Winnebago, and meet his daughter just in time for her wedding. He also meets his son-in-law's parents, and finds out his old house was destroyed, and replaced by a used car shop. Jack Nicholson is incredible in a charming comedy which also features an amazing performance by Kathy Bates. Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor wrote a very ingenious screenplay that's a perfect lesson for writing classes.

Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Jack Nicholson), Best Supporting Actress (Kathy Bates)

"Film Website" Awards: Best Supporting Actress (Kathy Bates), Best Adapted Screenplay
Other "Film Website" nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Jack Nicholson)

Directed by: Steve Oedekerk
Written by: Steve Oedekerk
Produced by: James G. Robinson
Starring: Jim Carrey, Ian McNeice, Simon Callow, Bob Gunton, Maynard Eziashi, Sophie Okonedo, Tommy Davidson, Danny D. Daniels

Before I start this review, I confess that I did not see the first film, but don't expect me to. Jim Carrey returns as the crazy pet detective, Ace Ventura, in a film that doesn't supply a lot of laughs. After a rescue attempt to save a squirrel goes horribly wrong, he retires. After a sacred animal is taken from an African tribe, Ace is pulled out of retirement, and heads to Africa to find it. Only there, does he find out that it is the only animal he hates, the bat. This film is terribly stupid, and Ace's way of talking is horrendous. Only a few scenes pull in some laughs, including when Ace sees a room fall of animal heads. Probably the most disgusting scene in the film is when he is hiding out in a mechanical rhinoceros, and it becomes so hot that he pulls off all his clothes. He can't go out through the door, so goes out through the behind. An on looking family of tourists are watching nearby, and sees his naked body pull out from the rear end, which looks like the animal is giving birth. This is possibly Carrey's worst film, so if you want to see him doing some funny gags, just rent Liar Liar, or Bruce Almighty.

MTV Movie Awards: Best Mal Performance (Jim Carrey), Best Comedic Performance (Jim Carrey)
Other MTV Movie Award nomination: Best Kiss (Jim Carrey, Sophie Okonedo)

Directed by: Peter Lord
Written by: Peter Lord
Produced by: Christopher Moll
Starring: Nick Upton

Aardman is brilliant at making clay-mation shorts and this is a surefire classic to behold. Catholic groups won't be too pleased, though. From the ground of a bare planet, God creates the first human being called Adam. Adam wanders around the very small planet in need of something to do. Bored and lonely, he pleads to God to give him someone to be with. This all leads to a very funny surprise ending. This is a wonderfully well done, low budget short for everyone to enjoy. If you love Aardman's other shorts, you'll really enjoy this one. What I don't still understand is why doesn't Aardman release their non-Wallace and Gromit shorts on DVD.

Oscar nomination: Best Animated Short Film

Directed by: Spike Jonze
Written by: Charlie Kaufman, and Donald Kaufman
Based on the book by: Susan Orlean
Produced by: Jonathan Demme, Vincent Landay, and Edward Saxon
Starring: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Brian Cox, Cara Seymour, Tilda Swinton, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Ron Livingston

Charlie Kaufman's latest screenplay, Being John Malkovich is being shot, and now he's ready to tackle another project. It's called "The Orchid Thief", and it's based on a book by Susan Orlean. His twin brother, Donald is meanwhile taking a screen-writing seminar, and Charlie doesn't approve. We also see how Susan got the idea for her book. A man named John Laroche, who has no front teeth stole orchids off the swamps of Florida. Charlie is having trouble with his script, while Donald has just won praise from a lot of people. Now, Charlie decides to meet Susan, personally, but his shyness gets the better of him. This very well-written screenplay from the Kaufman twins also provides brilliant performances from it's three star actors. Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, and Chris Cooper are all very good in this well-done, but confusing comedy.

Oscar: Best Supporting Actor (Chris Cooper)
Other Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Nicolas Cage), Best Supporting Actress (Meryl Streep), Best Adapted Screenplay

"Film Website" nominations: Best Actor (Nicolas Cage), Best Supporting Actor (Chris Cooper), Best Supporting Actress (Meryl Streep), Best Adapted Screenplay

Directed by: Barry Sonnenfeld
Written by: Paul Rudnick
Based on the characters by: Charles Addams
Produced by: Scott Rudin
Starring: Raul Julia, Anjelica Huston, Christopher Lloyd, Christina Ricci, Joan Cusack, Carol Kane, Jimmy Workman

The Addams have a new arrival in the family, and Fester has a new girlfriend. That's typically the plot of this dull sequel. Thinking the children should light up a little, Debbie (Fester's girlfriend) sends them to summer camp, and Wednesday cracks her first smile. Just a few funny moments save this disaster from getting a 1 rating.

Oscar nomination: Best Art Direction

Directed by: Barry Sonnenfeld
Written by: Caroline Thompson, and Larry Wilson
Based on the characters by: Charles Addams
Produced by: Scott Rudin
Starring: Raul Julia, Anjelica Huston, Christopher Lloyd, Christina Ricci, Judith Malina, Elizabeth Wilson, Dan Hedaya, Jimmy Workman

In this delightfully dark comedy based on the animated series, a macabre family lives life in a creepy mansion. When a stranger arrives at their door, they think it's their long-lost uncle, Fester. Really it's just a dead ringer posing as him to steal the family's fortune. Mass mayhem ensures, and the stranger becomes one of them. This is a fun ride. If you enjoyed it, don't watch the dreadful sequel. If you didn't, then same comment.

Oscar nomination: Best Costume Design

Directed by: Chris Columbus
Written by: David Simkins
Produced by: Debra Hill, and Lynda Obst
Starring: Elizabeth Shue, Maia Brewton, Keith Coogan, Anthony Rapp, Vincent D'Onofrio, Calvin Levels

This comedy starts out funny, but falls flat during the last half-hour. A babysitter is in charge of taking care of three children. When, her friend calls, needing help, she must take the children to downtown Chicago with her. Many mishaps start to happen, and they have take many different transports, including the subway, and a tow car. Just switch it off, when things go madcap.

Young Artist Award: Best Young Actress in a Motion Picture-Comedy (Maia Brewton)
Other Young Artist Award nominations: Best Family Motion Picture-Comedy, Best Young Actor in a Motion Picture-Comedy (Keith Coogan)

Directed by: James Algar, Clyde Ceronimi, and Jack Kinney
Written by: Homer Brightman, Winston Hibler, Erdman Penner, Harry Reeves, Joe Rinaldi, and Ted Sears
Based on the books by: Kenneth Grahame, and Washington Irving
Produced by: Walt Disney
Voices of: Bing Crosby, Basil Rathbone, Eric Blore, Colin Campbell, Claud Allister, Campbell Grant, J. Pat O'Malley

This clever animated film has two stories in one. The first is "The Wind in the Willows." Mr. Toad is always have a different mania. Now, it's motor cars. He is soon arrested, but is friends soon come just in time. Then, there is "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Ichabod is the new schoolteacher in town. He soon falls in love with the village sweetheart. Then, he comes face to face with the legendary Headless Horseman. Beautifully constructed with wonderful music.

Golden Globe: Best Color Cinematography

Directed by: Steve Barron
Written by: Steve Barron, Sherry Mills, Tom Benedek, and Barry Berman
Based on the book by: Carlo Collodi
Produced by: Heinz Bibo, Raju Patel, and Jeffrey M. Sneller
Starring: Martin Landau, Geneviève Bujold, Udo Kier, Rob Schneider, Corey Carrier, Jonathan Taylor Thomas (voice), David Doyle (voice)

Gepetto is a lonely wood carver. One day, he creates Pinocchio, who then comes to life. Now, he must go through many tasks to become a real boy. This is a very dark tale of the wooden puppet. Nice at times, it goes away from family-friendly territory near the end, and too much fantasy becomes involved.

Young Artist Award: Best Voiceover by a Young Actor (Jonathan Taylor Thomas)

Directed by: Des McAnuff
Written by: Kenneth Lonergan
Based on the characters by: Jay Ward
Produced by: Robert DeNiro, and Jane Rosenthal
Starring: Robert DeNiro, Jason Alexander, Rene Russo, Piper Perabo, Randy Quaid, Janeane Garofalo, Keith Scott (voice), June Foray (voice)

Rocky and Bullwinkle have just had their show cancelled, and now their home, Frostbite Falls has completely fallen apart. Meanwhile, their arch-enemies have dug out of the cartoon world, and into the real world. Now, Rocky and Bullwinkle have to go to the real world and stop them. They have an evil plan to hypnotize the American public, and make them make them vote for them for president. This film is surprisingly funny, and an enjoyment with an amazing performance by DeNiro.

Saturn Award nominations: Best Supporting Actor (Jason Alexander), Best Supporting Actress (Rene Russo)

Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Written by: Steven Spielberg
Based on the short story by: Brian Aldiss
Produced by: Steven Spielberg, Bonnie Curtis, and Kathleen Kennedy
Starring: Haley Joel Osment, Jude Law, Frances O'Connor, William Hurt, Sam Robards, Jake Thomas

Steven Spielberg directs another masterpiece with A.I., which was already derived from his late friend, the great director, Stanley Kubrick. David is the first robot who can love, but what he really wants is to be a real boy. After his "mother" leaves him alone in the forest, he attempts to accomplish his goal. Along the way, he meets the womanizing robot, Gigolo Joe, who decides to help him find the blue fairy. Along with the breathtaking special effects, Steven Spielberg has created yet another brilliant world. John Williams's score is brilliant as always, as are the performances by Haley Joel Osment, Jude Law, and Frances O'Connor. This is a must-see for fans of Spielberg, Kubrick, and science fiction in general.

Oscar nominations: Best Original Score, Best Visual Effects

Directed by: Charles Martin Smith
Written by: Paul Tamasy, and Aaron Mendelsohn
Produced by: Robert Vince, and William Vince
Starring: Kevin Zegers, Wendy Makkena, Bill Cobbs, Michael Jeter, Eric Christmas, Nicola Cavendish, Jay Brazeau

This interesting film could have been good, if it weren't for it's horrible supporting characters. A teenage boy who is obsessed with basketball finds a golden retriever who is excellent at the sport. He puts him on the team, and he is a hit. His previous owner, an evil clown is, meanwhile, after him. What kind of a villain is a clown? That's the big low point of the film.

Golden Reel Award Winner

Directed by: Ron Clements, and John Musker
Written by: Ron Clements, John Musker, Ted Elliott, and Terry Rossio
Produced by: Ron Clements, and John Musker
Voices of: Robin Williams, Scott Weinger, Linda Larkin, Jonathan Freeman, Frank Welker, Gilbert Gottfried, Douglas Seale

Aladdin is a street rat who has to keep stealing bread to live. He has always wanted a live in the saltan's palace. Meanwhile, the sultan's daughter, Jasmine longs for a life on the outside. She leaves, and meets Aladdin who quickly falls in love with her. She is then found, and Aladdin is captured. He is then freed, and finds a lamp, and out comes a genie who turns him into a prince. This is a brilliant animated musical with Robin Williams stealing the show, and the music is wonderful, and imaginative.

Oscars: Best Original Score, Best Original Song ("A Whole New World")
Other Oscar nominations: Best Original Song ("Friend Like Me"), Best Sound, Best Sound Editing

Directed by: Ridley Scott
Written by: Dan O'Bannon
Produced by: Gordon Carroll, David Giler, and Walter Hill
Starring: Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skeritt, John Hurt, Ian Holm, Yaphet Kotto, Harry Dean Stanton, Veronica Cartwright, Helen Horton (voice)

Part science-fiction and part horror, Alien is good fun, but nothing more. Taking place way up in outer space, a crew is flying about and discovers a strange planet. One crew member finds a peculiar pod which then attacks him and attaches himself to his head. The doctors on the ship remove it but the alien starts to grow and starts to devour each astronaut one by one. Alien's use of double genres is interesting. For a science-fiction film, it's really good, but for a horror film, not so much. You can tell that the brilliant 2001 is an inspiration, but the horror aspect doesn't scare you. The alien is well done, though.

Oscar: Best Visual Effects
Other Oscar nomination: Best Art Direction

Directed by: Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson, and Hamilton Luske
Written by: Winston Hibler, Ted Sear, Bill Peet, and Erdman Penner
Based on the book by: Lewis Carroll
Produced by: Walt Disney
Voices of: Kathryn Beaumont, Sterling Halloway, Bill Thompson, Verna Felton, Ed Wynn, Jerry Colonna, Richard Haydn

Alice is a girl with a big imagination. One day she sees a white rabbit running along shouting "I'm late." She follows him into a hole, and arrives in Wonderland. There she sees many strange creatures like a Cheshire Cat, a Mad Hatter, and a very emotional Queen. Overall, her main goal is to return home. Not the best of the Disney cartoons, but still enjoyable to watch now and then.

Oscar nomination: Best Scoring for a Motion Picture

Directed by: Estefan Ellison
Written by: Estefan Ellison
Produced by: Estefan Ellison
Starring: Robin Kozriginski, Brenton Inglis, Michael Eronworf, Jessica Levy, Ishan Dave, Marcus Chen, Britney O'Brien, Karishma Smith

An interesting and strange short film that while film-making mistakes are obvious, it's not all that bad. After given an assignment to create the most vulgar film of all-time, Seth Williams creates a badly animated musical which soon lands him a motion picture deal with Paramount. This film is directed by an unknown as well as a full cast of people who are appearing in front of the camera for the first time (with the exception of Ishan Dave playing himself), yet it is strangely well directed and acted. The best performance mostly comes from Michael Eronworf playing the Napoleon Dynamite-esque best friend, but Robin Kozriginski does a good job in the lead.

Directed by: Alan J. Pakula
Written by: William Goldman
Based on the book by: Carl Bernstein, and Bob Woodward
Produced by: Walter Coblenz
Starring: Robert Redford, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Robards, Jane Alexander, Jack Warden, Hal Holbrook, Martin Balsam, Meredith Baxtor

In this wonderfully shot true story of the Watergate scandal, Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman turn in brilliant performances as the two journalists that would get President Nixon to resign. After a group of burglars break into Watergate, Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein (also known as "Woodstein") of The Washington Post, are writing a story on Watergate when they turn into detectives as they discover the committee to re-elect the president is up to something. With the help of a mysterious figure called Deep Throat, they attempt to track down the problem. Jason Robards, Jane Alexander, and the rest of the ensemble cast, all give gems of performances with a brilliant script, and brilliant camera work.

Oscars: Best Supporting Actor (Jason Robards), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Sound, Best Art Direction
Other Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Jane Alexander), Best Director (Alan J. Pakula), Best Film Editing

Directed by: Cameron Crowe
Written by: Cameron Crowe
Produced by: Cameron Crowe, and Ian Bryce
Starring: Patrick Fugit, Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand, Billy Crudup, Jason Lee, Philip Seymour Hoffman

This amazing film by Cameron Crowe is amazing beyond compare. William is a newspaper writer, who loves rock-and-roll. One day, he gets the story of his life by his idol, the famous music critic, Lester Bangs. He will tour with a popular band, and record their moments on paper. Soon, he gets caught up in the world of concerts, parties, drugs, and love. William's worried mother soon goes after him. This is simply put an amazing film. McDormand is amazing as the mother, with Hoffman stealing the show as Lester. For someone who hates rock-and-roll, I loved this film.

Oscar: Best Original Screenplay
Other Oscar nominations: Best Supporting Actress (Kate Hudson), Best Supporting Actress (Frances McDormand), Best Film Editing

Directed by: Milos Forman
Written by: Peter Shaffer
Based on the play by: Peter Shaffer
Produced by: Saul Zaentz
Starring: Tom Hulce, F. Murray Abraham, Elizabeth Berridge, Christine Ebersole, Jeffrey Jones, Roy Dotrice, Simon Callow, Charles Kay

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of the greatest composers who ever lived and he is brought to the screen in this brilliant adaptation of the well-known stage play. Salieri cannnot wait to finally meet his childhood idol, the great Mozart. However, he shocked to find out that he is in fact a vulgar boy. He wonders how God was able to give such a great gift to such a crude individual with a horrid laugh. As Mozart becomes more popular, Salieri grows more jealous and wants to put an end to his fame. Historical inaccuracies aside, Amadeus offers a wonderful look at the life of a great man. Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham are both spectacular in the leads, although I'm in the minority when I say that I liked Hulce's performance better. Milos Forman gives a stunning direction and the soundtrack is wonderful.

Oscars: Best Picture, Best Actor (F. Murray Abraham), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Makeup, Best Sound, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design
Other Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Tom Hulce), Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing

Directed by: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Written by: Guillaume Laurant
Produced by: Jean-Marc Deschamps, and Claudie Ossard
Starring: Audrey Tautou, Rufus, Lorella Cravotta, Serge Merlin, Mathieu Kassovitz, James Dabbouze, Calude Maurier

In the world of foreign-lingo cinema, I have always held an appreciation for Italian films. However, I have never much enjoyed the quirkiness of French features. While, they work well in American cinema (most notably Charlie Kaufman's works), it just doesn't work in the language of France. The title character of Amelie, is a waitress who one day decides to help people in need after finding out about the murder of Princess Diana. She helps many people find their true love and all the time dressed in a Zorro-style manner. Jean-Pierre Jeunet writes a poor screenplay and gives an okay direction, which doesn't much help the production. Audrey Tautou gives a cute performance, but doesn't give nothing else that much. The set values are good, but nothing that impressive. I will stick to my Italian films, thank you very much.

Oscar nominations: Best Original Screenplay, Best Sound, Best Foreign Language Film, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography

Directed by: George Lucas
Written by: George Lucas, Gloria Katz, and Willard Hyuck
Produced by: Francis Ford Coppola
Starring: Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Charles Martin Smith, Candy Clark, Cindy Williams, Paul Le Mat, Wolfman Jack, Harrison Ford

In this rollocking, fun ride, Star Wars scribe, George Lucas explores the teenagers of the early sixties. Curt and Steve are heading to college, next year and they get ready for the last night of the summer holidays. Terry has gotten a new car, and is riding the town, with his new girlfriend, Debbie. Now, Curt decides to have a last drag race with his arch-rival, Bob Falfa. Though very far from reality, this comedy is to fun to watch.

Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Candy Clark), Best Director (George Lucas), Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing

Directed by: Paul Weitz
Written by: Adam Herz
Produced by: Chris Moore, Craig Perry, Chris Weitz, and Warren Zide
Starring: Jason Biggs, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Shannon Elizabeth, Alyson Hannigan, Eugene Levy, Seann William Scott

In this funny little comedy, four teenagers attempt to lose their virginity before graduation. Jim streaks for a beautiful woman, while also taking interesting advice from his father. Oz joins the choir, so that girls think that he is sensitive (which is where the film sometimes falls flat). Finch, meanwhile, does it with a woman many times his senior, a la The Graduate. This is a charming comedy that has the essence of the John Hughes comedies of the 80's. The best comedic moments involve advice from Jim's father, Stifler's many practical jokes, and Jim's internet fiasco. Overall, this is a fun film for any to-be graduate.

MTV Movie Award nominations: Best Movie, Best Comedic Performance (Jason Biggs), Breakthrough Male Performance (Seann William Scott), Breakthrough Female Performance (Shannon Elizabeth)

Directed by: James B. Rogers
Written by: Adam Herz
Produced by: Chris Moore, Craig Perry, and Warren Zide
Starring: Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott, Shannon Elizabeth, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Eugene Levy

In this surprisingly funny sequel, Jim and his friends return for another sexual romp. Jim's old girlfriend, Nadia is returning from New York to visit him, and Jim needs to prepare. The gang decides to go to a beach house, and many funny things occur. Stifler falls for some lesbians, some walkie-talkies get some inappropriate material, and Jim accidentally super-glues himself to, uh, himself. Jim also meets his old lover, Michelle who gives her critique on his love. Like the first film, Eugene Levy delivers the most laughs as Jim's father as does Stifler's many shinanegans.

MTV Movie Award: Best Kiss (Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott)
Other MTV Movie Award nominations: Best Comedic Performance (Seann William Scott), Best Line

Directed by: Jesse Dylan
Written by: Adam Herz
Produced by: Adam Herz, Chris Bender, Chris Moore, and Craig Perry
Starring: Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott, Alyson Hannigan, Eddie Kaye Thomas, January Jones, Eugene Levy, Fred Willard, Thomas Ian Nicholas

After two healthy slices of pie, we reach the third part which is the most delicious of all. After dating her for three years, Jim finally decides to marry the band geek, Michelle. Already in the first scene, the laughs start rolling. Many of Jim's friends are back again, such as the intellectual Finch and the rarely-seen Kevin. And what would the American Pie series be without the Stifmeister. After supporting roles in the first two films, he is given the lead, even up-staging the soon-to-be newly-weds. Seann William Scott has all the best scenes as the swearing, sex-obsessed Stifler. From dancing in a gay bar to messing around with strippers in a bachelor party. he goes over the top. When Michelle's sister, Cadence arrives, Stifler pretends to be the nicest man in the world. Finch then turns into the next Stifler. The fathers of Jim and Michelle are played wonderfully by Eugene Levy and Fred Willard, but that's still not enough to keep the scene away from Stifler. This is a wonderful comedy, but like the first two is lowered down from getting higher then a 7 rating, because of some sappy moments.

MTV Movie Award: Best Dance Sequence

Directed by: Harold Ramis
Written by: Harold Ramis, Peter Tolan, and Kenneth Lonergan
Produced by: Jane Rosenthal, and Paula Weinstein
Starring: Billy Crystal, Robert DeNiro, Lisa Kudrow, Joe Viterelli, Chazz Palminteri, Joseph Rigano, Kyle Sabihy

When you see the mafia in films like The Godfather and Goodfellas, they seem very healthy. I'm wondering if they ever go to the doctor for a check-up. They don't show it in the cinema, but maybe in real life they do. Analyze This is possibly the first film I've seen, and heard of where a gangster goes to the doctor. Paul Vitti's family has just died, and now whenever he sees an emotional advertisement, he cries. He then decides to visit a psychiatrist. It just so happens that one of his henchmen crashed into one while driving, and he has the doctor's card. Vitti then visits the man, named Dr. Ben Sobol, and so becomes one of his patients. Everything is fine at first, but then Vitti wants to see Ben every moment of the day. Things soon turn hectic when Vitti's shenanigans interfere with Ben's wedding. Harold Ramis (who also did the classic comedy, Groundhog Day) writes a funny screenplay, and tops it off with a smooth direction. Billy Crystal gives a great comedic performance, but even Robert DeNiro who has less experience doing comedy, is better then Crystal. Lisa Kudrow gives a bland performance as Ben's to-be-bride, while the actor who plays their son is not needed. The best scene in the whole film occurs near the end, when Ben pretends to be a gangster. Although, I won't recommend that rush to Blockbuster to rent this film, I do think that if you see this playing on the television, watch it.

Golden Globe nominations: Best Motion Picture-Comedy/Musical, Best Actor in a Motion Picture-Comedy/Musical (Robert DeNiro)

Directed by: Adam McKay
Written by: Adam McKay, and Will Ferrell
Produced by: Judd Apatow
Starring: Will Ferrell, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, David Koechner, Steve Carell, Fred Willard, Chris Parnell, Vince Vaughn, Tim Robbins

Will Ferrell attempts to make a newsroom satire along the lines of Broadcast News and Network but makes a very humour-less film. Ron Burgundy is San Diego's most popular anchorman, but when a woman becomes his co-anchor, he is shocked. However, the two then start dating which changes Ron's life forever, until they break up and his world falls completely on top of him. Will Ferrell pretty much over-acts in this poorly done film that wants you to laugh, but fails completely. The only saving graces in this film are an hysterical performance by Steve Carell as an completely stupid weatherman and a huge fight scene involving all the rival news-teams that has cameos by such noteworthy actors like Vince Vaughn and Tim Robbins. Overall, this is a big mess of a comedy that doesn't go anywhere.

MTV Movie Award nominations: Best Comedic Performance (Will Ferrell), Best On-Screen Performance, Best Musical Performance, Best Fight

Directed by: George Pal
Written by: Dr. Seuss
Based on the book by: Dr. Seuss
Produced by: George Pal
Starring: Gary Gray

Everyone of every religion has seen the Grinch short film and it's probably the best holiday short ever made, but this lesser seen Seuss short from George Pal is also well done and animated. The story of this cartoon is very simple. A boy (with the voice of the strangely named Gary Gray) narrated his walk one day to school. He explains all the wild and crazy thing that he spots going down Mulberry Street (which explains the extremely long title of the cartoon, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street). This is a very funny short that you will love and adore with affection, and although it's not a classic the Grinch cartoon, it's still a good cartoon. Be sure to read the very funny book as well.

Oscar nomination: Best Animated Short Film

Directed by: Andy Tennant
Written by: Steve Meerson, and Peter Krikes
Based on the book by: Anna Leonowens
Produced by: Lawrence Bender, and Ed Elbert
Starring: Jodie Foster, Chow Yun-Fat, Tom Felton, Bai Ling, Syed Alwi, Randall Duk Kim, Kay Siu Lim, Melissa Campbell

Anna is an English school teacher hired to teach the children of the king of Siam. Soon, the country is in peril of England taking over. Only, Anna can stop them. The plot is thin, and has a poor screenplay. Only amazing costumes, set, and camera work can save this film from getting low marks.

Oscar nominations: Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design

Directed by: John Huston
Written by: Carol Sobieski
Based on the play by: Thomas Meehan
Produced by: Ray Stark
Starring: Aileen Quinn, Albert Finney, Carol Burnett, Tim Curry, Bernadette Peters, Geoffrey Holder, Ann Reinking

In this somewhat okay adaptation of the classic play, John Huston makes Annie seem unlikeable. Annie is a red-headed orphan, who just wants to be free the power of the orphanage's evil owner, Miss Hannigan. When the rich millionaire, Daddy Warbucks asks for a girl to be with him, Annie hops up to go to him. The songs are all great, especially the famous "Tomorrow", but the film just prods away without any meaning. On the stage, it would have worked but on film, it doesn't. Albert's Finney's talent is wasted, and don't make me talk about Aileen Quinn's performance as Annie.

Oscar nominations: Best Original Song Score and/or it's Adaptation, Best Art Direction

Directed by: Woody Allen
Written by: Woody Allen, and Marshall Brickman
Produced by: Charles H. Joffe, and Jack Rollins
Starring: Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, Tony Roberts, Paul Simon, Carol Kane, Christopher Walken, Shelley Duvall

Alvy Singer is a neurotic Jewish comedian living in New York. His whole life he has been looking for someone to marry. That is until he meets Annie, a singer who has an amazing type of fashion. Throughout their entire relationship, he moves in with her, he buys her books about death, and she tells her to take a class. Then, Annie meets Tony Lacey, a hit record producer who offers her a job in Los Angeles. Alvy goes with her, but then gets bored, and heads back to New York. This incredibly funny film, from an amazing screenplay by Allen. Diane Keaton is the true star of the film playing the title role of the film in one of the most deserving Academy Award winning performances of all-time. This is something to make your friends laugh at a party.

Oscars: Best Picture, Best Actress (Diane Keaton), Best Director (Woody Allen), Best Original Screenplay
Other Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Woody Allen)

Directed by: Eric Darnell, and Tim Johnson
Written by: Todd Alcott, Chris Weitz, and Paul Weitz
Produced by: Brad Lewis, Aron Warner, and Patty Wooton
Voices of: Woody Allen, Sharon Stone, Sylvestor Stallone, Gene Hackman, Dan Aykroyd, Anne Bancroft, Christopher Walken

Z is one of many worker ants. All he wants to be unique. One day, he finds out his best friend, Chip is going to fight in a battle against the termites. He trades places with him, and is the only survivor. Z soon becomes really popular, and then falls in love with the princess, Bala. He then kidnaps her to take her to a utopia, where all insects live in peace. Nicely animated film has an interesting plot, but doesn't make good use of it from a poorly-written screenplay. The year's late computed-animated ant pic, A Bug's Life was more fun, and energetic. Despite it all, it's still fun to guess the many array of voices from popular actors, like Woody Allen, and Dan Aykroyd.

BAFTA Award nomination: Best Special Visual Effects

Directed by: Billy Wilder
Written by: Billy Wilder, and I.A.L. Diamond
Produced by: Billy Wilder
Starring: Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred MacMurray, Ray Walston, Jack Kruschen, David Lewis, Hope Holiday

Jack Lemmon gives another brilliant performance as C.C. Baxter, a insurance company employee who lends the keys to his apartment to some of the top men of the company, for a little alone time with their mistresses. When he finds out that the woman he is in love with, Fran Kubelik, the elevator operator is also his boss's mistress, he is upset. One of the main reasons is that it's them that use the apartment, the most. When Fran attempts suicide by taking drugs, C.C. starts to think. Although rather slow at times, Billy Wilder has crafted a really well-done screenplay, with a highly original story. Jack Lemmon, and Shirley MacLaine give star-making performances in the lead roles.

Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director (Billy Wilder), Best Original Screenplay, Best Black-and-White Art Direction, Best Film Editing
Other Oscar nominations: Best Actor (Jack Lemmon), Best Actress (Shirley MacLaine), Best Supporting Actor (Jack Kruschen), Best Sound, Best Black-and-White Cinematography

Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
Written by: Francis Ford Coppola, and John Milius
Based on the book by: Joseph Conrad
Produced by: Francis Ford Coppola
Starring: Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall, Albert Hall, Laurence Fishburne, Dennis Hopper, Frederic Forrest, Harrison Ford

Francis Ford Coppola took about three years to complete this wondrous Vietnam War epic. Martin Sheen gives a quiet performance as a soldier sent to kill a dictator played by Marlon Brando. He travels throughout Cambodia while meeting many crazy and difficult obstacles along the way, while also writing in his diary. Coppola directs a great cast and Sheen and Brando do very well. It is however Robert Duvall who steals the show as a drill sergeant who ''loves the smell of napalm in the morning.'' Harrison Ford also appears in a very small, but very enjoyable role. Coppola's writing is also magnificent as well as the brilliant filmed cinematography. Apocalypse Now may be completely unrealistic but it is still a masterpiece (that runs just a tad too long).

Oscars: Best Sound, Best Cinematography
Other Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Robert Duvall), Best Director (Francis Ford Coppola), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Film Editing

Directed by: Ron Howard
Written by: William Broyles Jr., and Al Reinert
Based on the book by: Jim Lovell, and Jeffrey Kluger
Produced by: Brian Grazer
Starring: Tom Hanks, Ed Harris, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, Kathleen Quinlan, Miko Hughes, Max Elliot Slade, Emily Ann Lloyd

This wonderfully crafted film looks at the Apollo 13 crisis brings a lot of energy. Jim Lovell is about to make a voyage to the moon, but his wife thinks something bad will happen. It seems it does, as the ship breaks apart, and Jim says those immortal words "Houston, we have a problem." The film has a brilliant cast, especially from Ed Harris, and wonderful direction by Ron Howard (who was snubbed an Oscar nomination). This is something to check out because you might learn something. Not just about space travel, but a lot of important things like a group of brave astronauts and...This is starting to drift away from becoming a film review. Anyway, this is a wonderful film that you should see.

Oscars: Best Sound, Best Film Editing
Other Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Ed Harris), Best Supporting Actress (Kathleen Quinlan), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Dramatic Score, Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction

Directed by: Michael Bay
Written by: Jonathan Hensleigh, and J.J. Abrams
Produced by: Michael Bay, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Gale Anne Hurd
Starring: Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Liv Tyler, Billy Bob Thornton, Steve Buscemi, Owen Wilson, Will Patton, Michael Clarke Duncan

It's a quiet day in New York City, until an asteroid lands, and destroys everything from the Statue of Liberty to the Chrysler Building. The government is worried that there is an even bigger asteroid coming, so they send a group of oil drillers to stop it. Wonderful special effects, and a well-written screenplay can't help the un-needed love subplot between Ben Affleck, and Liv Tyler. Great fun, but fast-forward through the love scenes.

Oscar nominations: Best Original Song ("I Don't Want to Miss a Thing"), Best Sound, Best Sound Editing, Best Visual Effects

Directed by: James L. Brooks
Written by: James L. Brooks, and Mark Andrus
Produced by: James L. Brooks, Bridget Johnson, and Kristi Zea
Starring: Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear, Cuba Gooding Jr., Jill the Dog, Steet Ulrich, Yeardly Smith, Shirley Knight

Writer, Melvin Udall has a heart of stone. The only thing he enjoys is going to his favourite restaurant, and talk to the head waitress. After his neighbour, Simon, is mugged, Melvin is chosen by his lawyer to take care of his dog. At first, Melvin doesn't like this, but then he takes a liking for the dog, as does him. This film is wonderfully funny, and enjoyable. Jack Nicholson, and Cuba Gooding, Jr. have solid performances, with Hans Zimmer's catchy music helping.

Oscars: Best Actor (Jack Nicholson), Best Actress (Helen Hunt)
Other Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Greg Kinnear), Best Original Screenplay, Best Original Musical or Comedy Score, Best Film Editing

Directed by: Gary Trousdale, and Kirk Wise
Written by: Tab Murphy
Produced by: Don Hahn
Voices of: Michael J. Fox, James Garner, Cree Summer, Claudia Christian, Leonard Nimoy, Corey Burton, Don Novello, John Mahoney

Bring back the musicals, please. Disney attempts to target teenagers in this Jules Verne-type adventure. Milo is a scientist who believes in the lost city of Atlantis. A millionaire then goes to Milo and tells him of a diary by an actual Atlantian. Along with a whole crew, Milo and others go on a search to Atlantis. They find it, but the King asks them to leave. It is later discovered that Cammander Rourke plans to use it's crystals for immortality. Disney had better leave the non-musical productions to Pixar, because this film just doesn't work. Michael J. Fox does a good job as Milo, but the rest of the cast fail.

Online Film Critics Society Award nomination: Best Animated Feature

Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Written by: John Logan
Produced by: Sandy Climan, Charles Evans Jr., Graham King, and Michael Mann
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, John C. Reily, Alec Baldwin, Alan Alda, Kate Beckinsale, Ian Holm, Danny Huston

Leonardo DiCaprio gives his best performance as the neurotic millionaire, Howard Hughes. Martin Scorsese gives his usual brilliant direction as he tells Howard's life from the filming of the most expensive film ever made to his relationship with Katharine Hepburn. Despite all these incredible accomplishments, he had Mental Compulsive Disorder. His life went completely down and even locked himself in the projection room of his studio. Leo DiCaprio, Marty Scorsese, Cate Blanchett, Alec Baldwin, and Alan Alda all contribute brilliantly to the production. The cinematography, editing, sound effects, and costumes are wonderful in the technical arena.

Oscars: Best Supporting Actress (Cate Blanchett), Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing
Other Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Leonardo DiCaprio), Best Supporting Actor (Alan Alda), Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Original Screenplay, Best Sound

"Film Website" Awards: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Cate Blanchett), Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Makeup, Best Sound
Other "Film Website" nominations: Best Actor (Leonardo DiCaprio), Best Supporting Actor (Alan Alda), Best Costume Design, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing

Directed by: Penny Marshall
Written by: Steven Zaillian
Based on the book by: Oliver Sacks
Produced by: Lawrence Lasker, and Walter F. Parkes
Starring: Robin Williams, Robert DeNiro, Julie Kavner, Ruth Nelson, John Heard, Penelope Ann Miller, Alice Drummond, Judith Malina

In this touching story, Robin Williams gives a brilliant performance as a doctor who is able to wake patients out of comas, and bringing them back to health. One of them, Leonard Lowes, has been in a coma since he was a teenager, starts to befriend the doctor. This emotional film is wonderfully written and paced, while Robin Williams, and Robert DeNiro give wonderful performances in the leads. The direction by Penny Marshall continues to prove that she is the best female director to come out of Hollywood. Did I mention the lead performances?

Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Robert DeNiro), Best Adapted Screenplay